5th February, 2026.
Chloe Ward is a young leader whose passion for environmental protection, community wellbeing, and youth representation has been recognised in her being awarded the Youth Citizen of the Year Award in Wingecarribee Shire Council's 2026 Australia Day celebrations. During her time as School Captain at Bowral High, she played a central role in a NSW Department of Education Game Changer Challenge team that investigated PFAS pollution affecting the Wingecarribee River. The group designed a prototype app to help residents identify PFAS related risks when purchasing everyday products, empowering people to make safer choices. Beyond her academic leadership, Chloe participates in Rotary Interact, where she contributes to fundraising efforts for local organisations and champions hands on environmental action. Her involvement has included organising sustainability projects and involvement in Clean Up Australia Day events, encouraging younger students to participate in practical stewardship of their surroundings. Chloe contributes to youth-focused sustainability initiatives as a member of the Future Council International Advisory Board. Through this role, she collaborates with peers worldwide to advocate for long term, community-driven solutions to environmental challenges. Congratulations Chloe.
